A vulvectomy is a procedure where a surgeon removes all or part of the vulva — the vulva involves the inner and outer labia. In some cases, a surgeon will also remove the clitoris. The aim of the procedure is to remove cancerous, precancerous, or any other unhealthy tissue. This article will outline what a person should expect from surgery, the length of the recovery process, and outlook.

1. VULVECTOM
Y
Types, Before & After Surgery,
Complications

2. What is Vulvectomy
• A vulvectomy is a procedure where a
surgeon removes all or part of the vulva -
the vulva involves the inner and outer labia.
In some cases, a surgeon will also remove
the clitoris.
• The aim of the procedure is to remove
cancerous, precancerous, or any other
unhealthy tissue.
• This article will outline what a person
should expect from surgery, the length of

3. Types of Vulvectomy
The term vulvectomy covers
various different surgical
procedures. They include:
• Skinning vulvectomy - A
surgeon removes the upper
layer
of the skin, leaving most of the
structure and other tissues
undamaged.

4. Types of Vulvectomy
• Simple vulvectomy - A surgeon removes the
whole vulva, except for the clitoris (in most
cases).
• Modified radical vulvectomy - A surgeon
removes most but not all of the vulva, a few of
the lymph nodes, and encircling tissues.
• Radical vulvectomy - A surgeon removes
the whole vulva, surrounding tissue, and
lymph nodes.
• The type of surgery a person requires depends
on the severity of their cancer or other hidden

5. Before Surgery
• Prior to surgery, a person should also
talk with their doctor about the
following:
• Use of recreational drugs
• Presence of sleep apnea
• Use of herbal or natural supplements
• Use of a pacemaker or other internal
devices
• Allergies or reactions to medications,

6. Before Surgery
• Use of over-the-counter or prescription
medications
• Use of blood thinners
• The surgery consultation provides a person
the opportunity to ask questions about the
procedure and follow up. The surgeon will
advise on how to prepare for surgery, for
instance, by taking or avoiding specific
medications.

7. After Surgery
• After the procedure, doctors and nurses
will observe a person’s progress in the
recovery room. Some people might need to
stay in the hospital for a few days to
recover. Before a person goes home, a
healthcare team will discuss follow-up with
them.
When recovering at home, a person
might find the following items useful:
• Clean, soft towels to pat dry the region

8. After Surgery
• Squirt bottles and supplies for a sitz bath to
help clean the region
• Hairdryer with a cool setting to dry the
region
• Cotton underwear
• Loose-fitting clothing
• Thermometer for checking for fever

9. Complications
• Complications and risks of a vulvectomy
are:
• Urinary tract infection
• Infection at the incision
• Swelling in the legs or groin
• Blood blister
• Excessive bleeding
• Scarring

10. Complications
• Issues with self-image
• Need for additional surgery to remove more
of the tissue
• Blood clots because of bed rest
• Incontinence
• Changes to sexual function and pleasure

11. Hill Regional Hospital is here to assist all your medical
needs with specialists and surgeons trained and
experienced in the most advanced treatments. Our
highly qualified doctors, nurses, and administrators are
administrators are dedicated to caring for you with
compassion in our state-of-the-art facilities.
Website: https://hillregionalhospital.com
Address: 101 Circle Drive Hillsboro, TX 76645
Phone No: 254-580-8500
Email Id: psheldon@hillrh.com

12. THANK YOU